Medical Coder Hourly Pay in Cambridge, MA: $23.23 (2026)
Quick Answer:Hourly pay for a medical coder working in Cambridge, MA runs $23.23 at the median for 2026 — annualizing to $48,308 at a standard 2,080-hour year. Figures projected from BLS OEWS 2025 (SOC 29-2072). Weighted against Cambridge's regional price level (BEA RPP 108.5, 9% above national), each hour of work buys what $21.41 nationally would. A 24-hour part-time schedule grosses $28,987 per year.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source

In Cambridge, Massachusetts, the medical coder hourly pay is projected to be $23.23 for 2026, reflecting a competitive compensation level compared to the national median of $20.13 per hour. This higher rate not only attracts skilled medical coders to the area but also benefits those seeking flexible part-time opportunities, such as working three days a week. Coders in this profession typically find themselves in clinical environments where they can earn between $15.93 and $36.00 hourly, depending on their experience and employer type. Those at the entry-level may begin closer to $15.93, while top earners in the field can approach the $36.00 mark. This pay structure makes medical coding an appealing option for both full-time professionals and part-time or per diem workers looking to augment their income.
About the Cambridge Market
Salary estimated from Massachusetts average ($60,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Medical Coder Hourly Wage Breakdown
| Percentile | Hourly Rate | Per 8hr Shift |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (P10) | $15.93 | $127.45 |
| Lower Range (P25) | $18.97 | $151.76 |
| Median (P50) | $23.23 | $185.81 |
| Upper Range (P75) | $29.54 | $236.32 |
| Top Earners (P90) | $36.00 | $287.97 |
Estimated Annual Income by Work Schedule in Cambridge
Based on $23.23/hr median hourly rate · 2026 est.
At $23.23/hr, a medical coder working full-time (40 hr/wk) in Cambridge, MA can expect to earn approximately $48,311 per year (2026 est.). Part-time hygienists working 24 hours per week would earn around $27,872. With a cost-of-living index of 108.50 (above the national average), these earnings may be offset by higher expenses in Cambridge.
Hourly Rate Calculator
Schedule Comparison in Cambridge
| Schedule | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Time (40 hrs) | $929.07 | $4,026 | $48,311 |
| Part-Time (24 hrs) | $557.44 | $2,416 | $28,987 |
| Per Diem (16 hrs) | $371.63 | $1,610 | $19,325 |
Compare CPC, CCS Wages With Similar Roles
| Role | Median Hourly |
|---|---|
| Medical Coder (Cambridge) | $23.23 |
| Medical Assistant (National Avg) | $20.77 |
| Medical Secretary (National Avg) | $20.19 |
| Medical Lab Technician (National Avg) | $28.18 |
| Billing and Posting Clerk (National Avg) | $21.86 |
Medical Coders in Cambridge, MA earn a median of $48,308 per year (2026 est.), which is 15.40% higher than the national median of $41,861 and 1.10% above the Massachusetts state average of $47,783.
Medical Coder Hourly Pay vs. Cost of Living
Working 24h/week at $23.23/hr = $28,987/year (purchasing power: $26,716).
Working 40h/week (full-time) = $48,311/year (purchasing power: $44,527).
CoL index: 108.5 (100 = national average).
2021 BLS Actual
$20.71/hr
2025 BLS Actual
$22.70/hr
2026 Current Est.
$23.23/hr
2021–2027 Growth
+14.7%
Hourly Rate Trajectory for Medical Coders in Cambridge (2021–2027)
2021–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 2.32% projection.
| Year | Hourly Rate | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $20.71/hr | Actual |
| 2022 | $20.94/hr | Actual |
| 2023 | $21.65/hr | Actual |
| 2024 | $30.86/hr | Actual |
| 2025 | $22.70/hr | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $23.23/hr | Estimated |
| 2027 | $23.77/hr | Projected |
Based on 5 years of BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, the median hourly rate for medical coders in Cambridge grew 9.6% from $20.71/hr (2021) to $22.70/hr (2025). At a 2.32% projected growth rate, hourly pay is expected to reach $23.77/hr by 2027. Part-time and per-diem medical coders can use this multi-year trend to benchmark future contract negotiations.
Note: Historical values (2021–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Cambridge metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 2026–2026 figures are current estimates, and 2027 values are projections, calculated using a 2.32% CAGR derived from 5-year BLS historical data. Actual salaries may vary based on employer, experience, certifications, and local market conditions.
Working as an Hourly Medical Coder in Cambridge
For medical coders pondering part-time work in Cambridge, taking on a three-day work week, totaling around 24 hours, could bring in an annual income substantially influenced by their hourly rate. Specifically, a part-time coder might expect to earn upwards of $54,000 annually versus a standard full-time coder. The per diem medical coder pay in Cambridge often includes premiums ranging from 10% to 25% higher than traditional staff positions, which can be a compelling option for those prioritizing flexibility. The variance in hourly rates across employer types is noteworthy; private practices may offer different compensation compared to larger healthcare systems or community health centers. Furthermore, some coders may find themselves accepting lower hourly wages for the benefits of health insurance, while others may opt for higher pay without benefits. Negotiating these terms is crucial; being aware of the local market and its specific dynamics can significantly impact their financial outcomes and job satisfaction.
More salary data for Cambridge, MA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hourly rate for medical coders in Cambridge in 2026?
How much do part-time medical coders make in Cambridge?
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Written by Aisha Patel, RHIT, CPC
Career Analyst
Aisha has over 10 years of experience in medical coding. She specializes in inpatient coding at acute care facilities. Aisha works closely with healthcare providers to ensure accurate coding practices.
Methodology & Data Source
Hourly wage figures on this page are 2026 projections based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. A 2.32% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), derived from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to estimate current 2026 hourly rates for medical coders in Cambridge. Part-time and full-time income estimates assume consistent weekly hours and do not account for overtime, benefits, or seasonal variation.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Cambridge is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).
2026 figures are projected from 2025 BLS data using a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.32%, derived from historical BLS wage trends for medical coders (SOC 29-2072).
Compiled and verified by Aisha Patel, RHIT, CPC, a licensed medical coder with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov